Emphysema

Emphysema is a chronic lung disease. It is often caused by exposure to toxic chemicals or long-term exposure to tobacco smoke.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is by spirometry (lung function testing), including diffusion testing. Other investigations might include X-rays, high resolution spiral chest CT-scan, bronchoscopy (when other lung disease is suspected, including malignancy), blood tests, pulse oximetry and arterial blood gas sampling.

Related Topics:
Spirometry - Lung function test - Diffusion testing - X-ray - Bronchoscopy - Malignancy - Blood test - Blood gas

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~